ALTRUSA CLUB PRESENTS CHECK TO DAEOC'S HOMELESS SHELTER

In the check presentation are, from left, Jennifer Stratman, Altrusa; Bridgett McKinney, DAEOC; Carolyn Harris, Altrusa; Alice Clark, DAEOC; and Melissa Eakins, Altrusa.

PORTAGEVILLE, MO- The Altrusa Club of Sikeston presented Delta Area Economic Opportunity Corporation with a $250 check in support of DAEOC's homeless shelter. The shelter is located in Sikeston and serves the homeless population throughout DAEOC's six county coverage area. Established in 1988 to address the increasing problem of homelessness in the Bootheel, the shelter served 55 people, including 25 children, in 2015. While most area shelters target specific populations, such as domestic violence victims, or provide housing for 24-72 hours, DAEOC's shelter is unique in its mission to house both individuals and families for a 90 day period. DAEOC's shelter allows families to remain together, rather than to be split apart due to the typical restrictions that exist for men and teenage boys in many emergency shelters.

Altrusa International of Sikeston was organized in 1978 and chartered in 1979. It consists of Sikeston area business and professional women whose goal it is to focus their expertise and perspectives on identifying ways to make the Sikeston community better. Throughout the years, Altrusa has reached the community by sponsoring literacy programs, working with the Sikeston Public Library, and volunteering at the local hospital and schools. Altrusa has an annual fundraiser each year to provide financial support for the House of Refuge and a selection of other local organizations.